El Arco Tours

A signature landmark of Los Cabos, El Arco de Cabo San Lucas—known locally as simply “El Arco” or “the Arch”—is a limestone arch carved by time, tide, and wind. The natural attraction runs runs down to the water’s edge at Land’s End, the southern tip of Cabo San Lucas (which itself is at the southern end of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula) and into the Sea of Cortez. From a distance, the rock formation looks like a dragon; up close, the arch frames sky, sea, and sand for prime photos.

The Basics

Because El Arco is a natural formation that’s accessible only by water, the only way to get close to it is by boat. Numerous tours leaving from the Cabo San Lucas marina offer various ways to see the arch. Adventurous travelers can opt for a kayaking and snorkeling tour—or parasail over it! Those looking to relax with friends can sail by it on a catamaran or sailboat, or take an evening cruise that includes dinner and drinks.

Things to Know Before You Go

A combo tour—including a stop at El Arco, a Cabo San Lucas shopping trip, a tequila tasting, and a snorkeling tour—is a great way to sample a variety of what the Cabo San Lucas area has to offer.

Small groups or families can charter a private boat for a more intimate experience.

A glass-bottom boat or kayak enables visitors to see the Sea of Cortez marine life in its natural habitat.

A sunset cruise is a wonderful way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing on land.

How to Get There

El Arco is located at the tip of Land’s End, the spit of land running east of downtown Cabo San Lucas and the marina. It is accessible only by boat, whether on a tour, independently, or via boat taxi.

When to Get There

The tropical climate of Los Cabos makes El Arco delightful to explore year-round, but keep in mind that the area is at its busiest around winter (between November and April) and its rainiest in late summer.

Marine Life Around El Arco

Those interested in marine life will enjoy a scuba or snorkeling tour around El Arco. Glass-bottom kayak tours go past colonies of sea lions and plenty of tropical fish on the way to Pelican Rock and Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor). Larger glass-bottom boat tours explore the history of Los Cabos as passengers enjoy sweeping views of Pelican Rock, El Arco, and Land’s End—where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.